What We Do

Established in 1966, Utah Heritage Foundation was the first statewide historic preservation organization in the western United States. Utah Heritage Foundation's mission is to keep the past alive, not only for preservation, but to inspire and provoke a more creative present and sustainable future. We preserve, promote and protect Utah's historic built environment throught public awarness, advocacy and acitve preservation.

Education Programs

Our heritage education program teaches students about Utah 's history and its historic resources. Students participate in planned activities, instruction, and discussion through tours of significant historic sites including the Kearns (Utah Governor's) Mansion and the Salt Lake City and County building. Teacher's guides that feature pre- and post-tour lessons for these two buildings and most recently, historic buildings in Washington County, are available to teachers free of charge.

Volunteer Opportunities

Utah Heritage Foundation volunteers lead guided historic home tours, present education programs to students, lead public and school tours through historic landmarks such as the Salt Lake City & County Building and the Kearns (Utah Governor's) Mansion, or participate on committees or the Volunteer Guild Board.

Advocacy

Utah Heritage Foundation advocates preservation-oriented public policies by drafting legislation, testifying before legislative committees, and lobbying for the passage of bills that preserve Utah's historic resources.

Among Utah Heritage Foundation's most significant advocacy successes are the passage of bills establishing the Utah Historic Preservation Tax Credit, which allows a 20% reinvestment tax credit for the rehabilitation of historic residential properties, and the Utah Main Street Program, which promotes economic development through the revitalization of historic downtowns.

Technical Assistance

We respond to calls from citizens who need advice on saving endangered properties, conducting local preservation programs, passing local preservation ordinances, and integrating preservation into local planning.

Stewardship

Utah Heritage Foundation is the steward of historic Memorial House in Salt Lake City's Memory Grove Park. Utah Heritage Foundation rehabilitated Memorial House after it stood vacant for ten years and the building is now used as an event space. Our continued maintenance and operation of this landmark as an event venue ensures its use and enjoyment by the public.